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MSc Kinesiology (thesis)

Creating a healthier future at the University of Waterloo

As the world's first Department of Kinesiology, we continue to ignite an interdisciplinary approach to optimize health, prevent injury and illness, and extend the years of high quality life.

Our nationally and internationally recognized and respected Master's program provides the opportunity to understand cellular to societal implications of physical activity, nutrition and lifestyle - preparing you for careers in a wide range of health fields.

Program overview | Tuition fees

The Master of Science thesis program aims to advance knowledge in human health and movement sciences, and to foster a unique interdisciplinary research approach. Course work and research is focused in three specialization areas: Biomechanics, Neuroscience, or Physiology and Nutrition. You'll acquire sufficient knowledge to pursue research at a superior level, develop a facility with quantitative methods, and obtain an understanding of the components that together make up the multidiscipline of kinesiology.

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The minimum residence requirement for the MSc thesis degree is two terms full-time from an Honours Bachelor's degree or equivalent.

All requirements for the MSc thesis degree in Kinesiology must normally be completed within the following time periods:

Thesis: Full-time: 6 terms (2 years); Part-time: 15 terms (5 years)

Supervisor

Each incoming MSc thesis student will be assigned a graduate supervisor to help in getting oriented in the program, selecting courses, and serving on thesis committees. All students should meet with their graduate supervisor early during the first term to complete a Degree Requirements & Proposed Program of Study Form.

As a thesis MSc graduate, you will be well-prepared to carry on with doctoral studies, proceed to professional health care programs, or take higher standing positions in the private sector.

Tuition

Tuition is based on a four-month term, and is subject to change on an annual basis.

Applications for Fall 2019 will continue to be accepted until June 1, 2019, however please contact potential supervisors.

Specialization areas

The study of Kinesiology spans the breadth of cellular, biophysical, and psycho-social parameters which affect and effect movement in the realm of sport, work, play, dance, exercise, and disease.

Applicants to the master or doctoral program apply to study in one of three areas: biomechanics, neuroscience, or physiology and nutrition. Within these areas, there is a strong emphasis on aging, injury and disease prevention, health promotion and rehabilitation.

Given the multidisciplinary nature of Kinesiology, undergraduates and graduates students with an interest in biology, physiology, biochemistry, nutrition, anatomy, engineering, systems design, physics, health studies, sociology, social psychology, or psychology are encouraged to apply.

Awards and funding

Funding your education

Kinesiology offers competitive funding for our graduate students. Financial support is available from many sources: graduate research studentships from supervisors’ grants, teaching assistantships, federal and provincial government scholarships, institutional scholarships, bursaries, and loans provided by the government of Ontario.